Texas A&M University: Benefiting from standardization

Texas A&M University: Benefiting from standardization

For Texas A&M University faculty moving from one Liberal Arts and Humanities smart classroom to another, there is no learning curve. That’s because classrooms and conference rooms in the department have standardized equipment. The College Station, Texas, university’s Instructional Media Services Department installed an AMX controller and touch panel in every room, a move that keeps the comfort level high for instructors.

The standardized technology approach also reduced implementation and support costs and improved efficiency of operations. The familiar surroundings make it easier for instructors to take advantage of the state-of-the-art equipment, and for IT support staff to remotely monitor and manage devices. Using AMX Resource Management Software, support staff can see real-time updates of equipment usage, lamp hours and energy consumption. This allows staff to properly maintain the different elements and be prepared with replacement parts, such as new projector bulbs. “We increased our equipment’s lifespan and reduced the amount of energy we use, all while reducing the time it takes to accomplish these tasks,” says Joel Edwards, IMS microcomputer/LAN administrator. “The impact this has had on our support departments has been very positive. All colleges in the building, as well as the general IT support group, are working together.”